There have long been rumors that Amazon wants to usurp Netflix as the video streaming service of choice. But new reports suggest that Amazon is about to announce a tie-in with Viacom that could make that a reality.

Adding to the recent glut of online video streaming news, Reuters reports that that Amazon is to announce a web video deal with Viacom, and it could come as soon as this week. Amazon already offers its video service to Prime customers, and has deals with studios such as CBS Corp, Time Warner Inc's Warner Bros, News Corp's Fox, Sony Corp, Comcast Corp's NBC Universal and Walt Disney Co. A tie-in with Viacom could add TV shows and movies from MTV Networks, Nickelodeon and Paramount Studios to that list.

According to Reuters, last week Viacom Chief Executive Philippe Dauman told Wall Street analysts the company would be announcing a new online video deal this week, but didn't name the partner. Amazon is keen to open up its streaming service to more than just its Prime users — and this announcement could bring about that change. [Reuters]